Bacon Wrapped Smokies
The smell of sizzling bacon fills the air, curling around you like a warm hug as you envision the crispy, golden bites waiting to be devoured. Each little smoky wrapped snugly in bacon, coated in a sweet, sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, is sure to make anyone weak in the knees. The glossy sheen glistens under the kitchen lights, inviting you in for just one more bite. Remember those game nights with friends, all gathered around, eager to share the excitement? These Bacon Wrapped Smokies are made for those moments, turning any gathering into a tasty affair that lingers in your memory.
Table of Contents
Whether it’s game day, a cozy holiday gathering, or a simple Saturday evening at home, these delightful bites bring a hint of nostalgia back to the table. They evoke laughter shared over trays piled high with crispy snacks and good company. Making these treats is as easy as it is fun, and I can’t wait for you to whip them up yourself to experience their incredible flavor! Trust me; these Bacon Wrapped Smokies are a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: In just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that practically makes itself.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet brown sugar and the savory, crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering harmony that you just can’t resist.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These little bites, glistening with a caramelized coating, are sure to impress your guests and make your appetizer table shine.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for game days, holidays, or even just a snack at home, these smokies fit any occasion seamlessly.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Consider using turkey bacon for a lower-fat option or experimenting with gluten-free little smokies to suit various dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb sliced bacon (cut into thirds): Bacon adds that crave-worthy flavor and crispy texture. You can use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- 1 lb little smokies: These pre-cooked sausages are the star of the show! If you can’t find little smokies, try using cocktail sausages; just ensure they’re fully cooked.
- ¾ cup brown sugar: This provides that sweet caramelization as it melts, contributing to a delightful sticky glaze. Light or dark brown sugar can work; dark will yield a richer flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: A hint of this spice adds a surprising kick. If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to omit or reduce this amount.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: This lovely spice adds depth with its smoky notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Smoked paprika can be a fun twist here!
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper: Just a pinch brings all the flavors together, enhancing the savory nature of the bacon and smokies without overpowering them.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This temperature ensures the bacon crisps up nicely. Line a large rimmed baking tray with foil for easy cleanup and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial because no one likes their delicious creations stuck to the pan!
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly through the sugar. Setting this aside gives the smokies a flavor boost that’s going to take them over the edge deliciousness-wise. Don’t skimp on this step!
Wrap the Smokies: Take one piece of bacon and wrap it around one little smoky, securing it with a toothpick. Position the wrapped smokies on your prepared baking tray and repeat with the remaining sausages and bacon. The toothpicks not only make for beautiful presentation but also help to keep the bacon in place while cooking. It’s a little detail that makes a big difference!
Sprinkle and Bake: Once they’re all wrapped, take half of your brown sugar mixture and generously sprinkle it over the bacon-wrapped smokies. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15 minutes until the bacon starts to look golden. This initial bake helps to render some of the fat and allows the sugar to melt and caramelize significantly.
Flip and Final Bake: After 15 minutes, flip each smoky over carefully using tongs. Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture over the top of the smokies. Return them to the oven for another 15 minutes or until the bacon is crisp and the sugar is bubbling, creating a beautiful glaze. Oh, how wonderful this will smell by now! You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon has a crispy edge and the sugar is sticky but not burnt.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Bacon Wrapped Smokies at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you have leftovers after that, they should be placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When it’s time to reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You might notice that the bacon can soften a bit, but giving them a quick bake revives the crunch and flavor.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid cutting the bacon too thinly; thicker slices hold up better during cooking and wrap more securely around the smokies.
- Ensure your little smokies are fully cooked, as they only need to be heated through. Use a meat thermometer if uncertain.
- Prepare the smokies ahead of time and then bake them right before serving for a freshly made taste when guests arrive.
- Keep an eye on the sugar—depending on your oven, it can burn quickly. If you see it turning too dark, cover the tray loosely with foil to protect the coating.
- Consider adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sugar mixture for an extra kick if you love spicy food!
The combination of sweet and savory flavors in these Bacon Wrapped Smokies makes them an absolute star on any table. Experiment with spices or dipping sauces to make each occasion special, and enjoy the process of creating these meaningful bites for friends and family. There’s nothing like gathering together over food, sharing laughter, and making memories that will last a lifetime!
Recipe FAQs
Can I prepare Bacon Wrapped Smokies in advance?
Absolutely! You can wrap the smokies in bacon and refrigerate them in advance. Just add the sugar mixture right before baking. This makes hosting easier and lets you enjoy your guests without being stuck in the kitchen.
How can I make this dish spicy?
If you’re a fan of heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper slightly or adding diced jalapeños to the smokies before wrapping them in bacon. A dash of hot sauce in the sugar mixture can also give it a nice kick!
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Certainly! If little smokies aren’t available, you can use cocktail sausages, or even sliced sausage links. Just make sure they are cooked before wrapping in bacon for the best results!
What should I serve with Bacon Wrapped Smokies?
These little bites are excellent on their own, but consider pairing them with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even ranch for a fun twist. A side of fresh veggies can also balance out the richness.
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📖 Recipe Card
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bacon Wrapped Smokies are a delightful appetizer made with crispy bacon and sweet brown sugar, creating an irresistible treat perfect for game days and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sliced bacon (cut into thirds)
- 1 lb little smokies
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking tray with foil.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cayenne pepper, paprika, and black pepper.
- Wrap each little smoky with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Sprinkle half of the sugar mixture over the wrapped smokies and bake for 15 minutes.
- Flip the smokies, add the remaining sugar mixture, and bake for another 15 minutes until bacon is crispy.
Notes
Consider using turkey bacon for a lighter version.
Ensure little smokies are pre-cooked before wrapping.
Monitor the sugar closely to prevent burning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
